Hey everyone: I had to report on our trip. We had the most wonderful time. I can't believe all we saw in such a short time. We rode the streetcars and busses all over, ate great food, saw wonderful homes and parks and scenery and really got a feeling for the town. Everyone was friendly and helpful and welcoming. Max loved Tulane. We had a nice tour of the campus and he decided to take their financial aide package and start there in August. The French Quarter Festival was wonderful. 15 stages of music, food, drink, art show etc. Most if it was in Jackson Square and down by the river and we just wandered around eating an listening and having a ball. I never felt unsafe or nervous. Of course we were sensible (as we would be in any big city), but there was a vibe of positive energy that was invigorating. Even in Uptown and the Garden Dist. there is evidence of Katrina, but those I talked to who had been through the storm are very upbeat about rebuilding. I am a friendly person who talks to strangers, and I met such nice and helpful people. They would stop and give directions, make recommendations, talk about their experiences during the storm, offer suggestions of places to see. Just such nice people. Two sterotypes that weren't true were that everyone spoke with an accent (not true, we could understand everyone easily except for the cabdrivers) and that the French quarter and Bourbon street were unsafe and sleazy (definitely safe in the daytime/evening--lots of police patrols and people. Definitely sleazy, but mostly only on Bourbon and nothing I would freak out about). I just loved the architecture, the scenery, the river, the food. I can't wait to go back. Thanks again for your suggestions. I have so much yet to see. Kathy

Hello All, I do n't want to be the last to celebrate a wonderful weekend, but my internet connection has been fussy. I can't write much because I have to run out and plant a couple of things I got on the Vineyard. I have some wonderful souvenirs, a few of which were bought at the expense of peace of mind about getting to the ferry. But the best souvenir is the experience of gracious hosts, a48 hours of garden imersion, an excellent dinner, getting to see new and old friends, and a newfound appreciation of potential for relationships through the web. Of all the things computers mean to me, these gardening relationships are the most prized. In fact, since the computer is just a tool, it is really amazing that something so alive was discovered and nurtured through computer relationships. So, thank you Katie and Joe, Nan, Mindy and Debra, the weather gods, and whatever/whoever had a hand in this special gift./Idabean Marie

What I wouldn't have given to spend February in FL when I lived in IN. You will be pretty far south--my sister lives down there, so you will be a little warmer. We do have cold fronts come through, but they don't last more than a few days. It will seem warm to you because you'll be acclimated to the cold. As far as clothes, just bring what's comfortable. Most restaurants are very casual. There is a boat from Ft. Myers that takes you down to Key West. I think it's $90 per person, but Key West is something else! You can stay a few days or go back to Ft. Myers that evening. If you like to fish you may want to take a charter boat out. That's really fun. Or take a gambling cruise out. They usually have a buffet meal and lots of slots. LOL! Or you can just bask in the sun and relax with a Pina Colada. I hope you enjoy your time here. Please do go to the bird sanctuary Joan/MN mentioned. We saw the most beautiful sight there one evening. A tree was full of roseate spoonbills and it looked like the whole tree was covered in big pink flowers. (Take your bird book along.)

I second a trip up Route 7A to Manchester, If you're hungry, Candeleros is worth the trip alone. The last time I was there I exchanged mole recipes with the chef. I think mine's better; but Candeleros makes a mean enchillada mole! The best you'll find at any New England restaurant. Manchester reeks of New England charm. At the end of September, they'll be lots of 'leaf peepers'...bus loads of them. Prowling through the antique stores will leave you broke but clutching a treasure, for sure. Continue heading north & you'll come to Norwich & King Arthur Flour. I could spend an entire weekend in their store! Depending on your time frame, Dankin Farms is another fun Vermont expedition. I could eat myself sick on their samples alone. My favorite souvenir from Dakin's is a little shaker jar of their powdered maple sugar. I love, love, love it lightly sprinkled on grilled salmon. I've sent their gift baskets, as busines gifts, many times always to rave reviews. With two weeks, you might also want to consider taking the ferry at Burlington across & going to Lake Placid, NY? I'll think of some other fun stuff. Right now, I've starved & off to make some lunch. /tricia